To Our Dearest Sarah and Allan,
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!
It seems like its only yesterday when you guys were here with us and joined us when we were grieving over the loss of my dad, when both of you are supposed to be celebrating with your own families. Yet, chose to spend it with us.
I just want to let you know, I am still overwhelmed to this day for the out pouring of your love in our family. And for that, I'll never forget and will always be grateful..
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." And this quote kinda resonate on how you made us feel in our time of grieving..
God's love somehow reflected in your own hearts and allowed yourselves to be used and shine upon ours. God's nearness and grace is truly upon those who are broken. We truly appreciate beyond words for that strong affection and emotional support at that time when we needed it the most,-- People like us will never forget how you made us feel.
The only good thing about times of adversity is that you realized who you're real friends and family are, while the rest could probably care less. Or, perhaps others just don't know what to say.
Although fumbling for something to say is better than ignoring what really happened, like it never did. And honestly, for that, it's like adding insult to injury.
Perhaps, I just want to share now what I really think and what I never really shared before. It's better to acknowledge the loss and show your support in many other ways.
A simple "I'll pray for you" is more than enough to say, but, for the most part, at least you can still express your sympathy and give the bereaved a chance to talk or at least say, were here for you, just in case you needed someone to talk to, is more than good enough to show you care. A little caring goes a long, long way when someone is hurting.
Like they say, you can only measure one's love and concern amidst one's grief and sorrow through comforting words, and for that, you have allowed God's light to shine upon us through your love and affection in our time of darkness.
Ecclesiastes 7:2
says, “It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the
house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living
will lay it to heart.”
This verse implies that grief can be good because
it can refresh our perspective in life. Second, we remember that
feelings of grief are temporary. “Weeping may remain for a night, but
rejoicing comes in the morning”
I know Christmas is all about celebration in the life of Christ, the reason for the season. But also a reminder of our loss. Through it all, God is faithful!
I wish you both a blessed Christmas and a happy New Year!! May God's love continue to shine in your hearts. May God bless you with good health and happiness always. All the best and more blessings to both of you for this coming New year!! We love you, Sarah and Allan, always!
With lots of love from all of us,
Alan, Roy, Auntie Tessie, Ellen, Josh and Jamie
